Banana Baked Donuts Easy Homemade Recipe

By:

Marie Delacroix

Published:

March 25, 2026

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Why You’ll Love This Banana Donuts

Banana donuts are a fun twist on the classic banana bread, offering moist baked treats made with overripe bananas and topped with a thick brown butter icing. They’re perfect for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying snack that feels homemade without much hassle. In just 35 minutes total, you can whip up a batch that’s as easy as it is delicious, making it ideal for busy mornings or casual get-togethers.

One of the best things about these donuts is how simple they are to prepare, especially if you’re new to baking. You’ll appreciate the short prep time of 15 minutes and bake time of 20 minutes, which fits right into a hectic schedule. Plus, the natural sweetness from those overripe bananas means you don’t need a lot of added sugar, helping keep things light and tasty.

Ease of preparation: These banana donuts come together quickly with just a few basic steps, making them a breeze even for beginners. With ingredients you likely have on hand and a total time of only 35 minutes, you can enjoy fresh donuts without spending hours in the kitchen. This simplicity makes them great for busy parents or students who want something homemade fast.
Health benefits: Packed with nutrients from overripe bananas, these donuts provide potassium and fiber that support energy levels and digestion. Each donut has about 268 calories and includes healthy elements like 1.2 grams of fiber, making it a smarter choice compared to fried options. For diet-conscious folks, the natural moisture from bananas adds a wholesome touch while keeping the recipe relatively low in added fats.
Versatility: You can easily adapt this recipe to fit different needs, such as using gluten-free flour for those with sensitivities. It’s also a flexible base for adding extras like nuts or chocolate chips, so it works for various tastes and occasions. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a working professional, these donuts can be your go-to for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.
Distinctive flavor: The thick brown butter icing gives these donuts a nutty, caramel-like taste that sets them apart from regular banana bread. Made with melted unsalted butter that’s browned for extra depth, it complements the soft, moist texture perfectly. This combination makes every bite feel special and satisfying, turning a simple recipe into something that delights food enthusiasts of all kinds.

As you can see, these banana donuts offer a blend of convenience and flavor that makes them a hit in any kitchen. They’re especially handy for travelers or newlyweds setting up a new home, providing a comforting treat that’s easy to share. For more ideas on using overripe bananas, check out our overripe banana recipes guide on the blog.

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Banana Donuts
Essential Ingredients for Banana Donuts
Main Ingredients for Donuts
Ingredients for Brown Butter Icing
Special Dietary Options
How to Prepare the Perfect Banana Donuts: Step-by-Step Guide
First Step: Preheat and Prepare Your Tools
Second Step: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Third Step: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Fourth Step: Fold Together and Fill the Molds
Fifth Step: Bake the Donuts
Sixth Step: Make the Brown Butter Icing
Final Step: Ice and Serve
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Banana Donuts
Protein and Main Component Alternatives
Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
Mastering Banana Donuts: Advanced Tips and Variations
Pro Cooking Techniques
Flavor Variations
Presentation Tips
Make-Ahead Options
How to Store Banana Donuts: Best Practices
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Donuts
How do you make banana donuts at home?
What is brown butter and how does it improve banana donuts?
How do you make brown butter for banana donut glaze?
Can you make banana donuts ahead of time?
How do you store banana donuts to keep them fresh?
Banana Donuts
Ingredients
Instructions
Last Step:
Notes
Nutrition
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Essential Ingredients for Banana Donuts

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these moist baked banana donuts topped with brown butter icing. Below, I’ll break down the lists for both the donuts and the icing, including precise measurements and why each one matters. This setup helps you follow along and understand how everything comes together for the best results.

Main Ingredients for Donuts

1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour – This forms the base of the batter, providing structure and a soft texture; it’s versatile and easy to measure for accurate results.
½ cup (107 grams) packed light brown sugar – Adds natural sweetness and moisture, enhancing the flavor with a caramel note that pairs well with bananas.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients without overpowering them.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the donuts rise and stay fluffy, ensuring they have that perfect baked texture.
2 overripe bananas, mashed – Provide natural sweetness, moisture, and a fruity flavor; using overripe ones with brown spots makes the donuts extra soft and tasty.
2 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients, while keeping the recipe lighter than fried versions.
1 large egg – Acts as a binder to hold the batter together and contributes to the donuts’ tender crumb.

Ingredients for Brown Butter Icing

4 tablespoons unsalted butter – When browned, it creates a nutty flavor that elevates the icing and complements the banana taste.
1 cup (113 grams) powdered sugar – Forms the smooth base of the icing, helping it set nicely on the donuts.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Milk or heavy cream as needed to adjust consistency – Allows you to thin the icing to the perfect drizzling or dipping texture without making it too runny.

Special Dietary Options

Vegan: Swap the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter; choose almond milk for the icing to keep it dairy-free.
Gluten-free: Replace all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend to maintain the same soft texture.
Low-calorie: Reduce sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute, and opt for low-fat milk in the icing to cut down on calories while preserving moisture from the bananas.

How to Prepare the Perfect Banana Donuts: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these banana donuts is straightforward and rewarding, starting with simple prep work. Banana donuts are moist baked treats made with overripe bananas and topped with a thick brown butter icing, offering a tasty alternative to banana bread. Follow these steps to get bakery-quality results in no time.

First Step: Preheat and Prepare Your Tools

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which ensures even baking. Spray a donut mold with non-stick spray and set it aside so it’s ready when you need it. This step sets the stage for smooth preparation and helps prevent sticking.

Second Step: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour, ½ cup (107 grams) packed light brown sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon baking powder until everything is smooth and well combined. This creates a solid base that will give your donuts the right texture. Make sure to whisk thoroughly to avoid any lumps later on.

Third Step: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mash 2 overripe bananas until they’re smooth, then mix in 2 ½ tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1 large egg. This blend adds natural sweetness and moisture to the batter, making the donuts extra tender. Stir gently to keep the mixture even without overworking it.

Fourth Step: Fold Together and Fill the Molds

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones until just combined; the batter will be thick, which is normal. Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared molds, filling them about three-quarters full to allow room for rising. This method ensures your donuts bake up perfectly without overflowing.

Fifth Step: Bake the Donuts

Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes, or until they spring back when lightly pressed. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as this preserves their moist texture. Once done, let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing them to cool completely on a rack.

Sixth Step: Make the Brown Butter Icing

While the donuts cool, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it foams and brown bits form at the bottom, about 5 minutes. Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly, then whisk in 1 cup (113 grams) powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Add milk or heavy cream a tablespoon at a time if the icing is too thick, adjusting for the perfect consistency.

Final Step: Ice and Serve

Once the donuts are fully cooled, dip their tops into the brown butter icing for that irresistible finish. Serve them right away for the best flavor, perhaps with a hot drink from our collection of easy iced tea recipes. These donuts make a great breakfast or snack, and you can enjoy them within their 35-minute total prep and cook time, including nutritional info per donut like 268 calories and 43.7 grams of carbohydrates.

Remembering tips like using overripe bananas for softness or letting eggs reach room temperature can make your baking even better. You can prepare the batter ahead and refrigerate or freeze it for convenience, turning this into a go-to recipe for any day.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Banana Donuts

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If you’re looking to tweak the main ingredients, consider swapping the egg for a flax egg to accommodate vegan diets, which keeps the batter binding nicely. For the bananas, you could use applesauce if you’re out of stock, adding similar moisture while slightly changing the flavor. These changes help maintain the donuts’ soft texture while catering to different preferences or needs.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Experiment with adding veggies like grated zucchini for extra nutrition, which blends seamlessly into the batter. For the icing, try a yogurt-based sauce as a lighter alternative to brown butter, or adjust seasonings with cinnamon for a seasonal twist. These options make the recipe adaptable for dietary restrictions or seasonal ingredients, ensuring everyone can enjoy a personalized version.

Mastering Banana Donuts: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro Cooking Techniques

To elevate your banana donuts, focus on weighing flour for accuracy or browning butter carefully to avoid burning, which adds that nutty flavor. Letting eggs come to room temperature ensures better mixing, leading to a smoother batter. If the batter feels dry, stir in a bit of applesauce for extra moistness without altering the taste much.

Flavor Variations

Try mixing in chocolate chips or nuts for a fun twist, or use different extracts like almond in the icing for new flavors. You can also swap brown sugar for coconut sugar to make it healthier, opening up options for diet-conscious individuals. These changes keep the recipe versatile and exciting for baking enthusiasts.

Presentation Tips

For a polished look, dust the iced donuts with powdered sugar or add fresh fruit as garnish. Arrange them on a platter for parties, making them visually appealing for hosts and guests. This simple plating can turn your homemade treats into something special for any occasion.

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours or freeze it for longer storage, so you can bake fresh donuts when needed. This is perfect for busy schedules, allowing working professionals to have treats ready with minimal effort. Just thaw and bake for quick results, keeping the donuts as moist as ever.

How to Store Banana Donuts: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your banana donuts fresh and tasty, especially since they’re best eaten the same day. For short-term needs, follow these guidelines to maintain their moist texture. Always cool them completely before storing to prevent sogginess.

Refrigeration: Store unglazed donuts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; this keeps them fresh and ready for icing later.
Freezing: Wrap baked donuts tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best quality.
Reheating: Warm refrigerated or frozen donuts in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore their texture without drying them out.
Meal Prep Considerations: Batch cook and store portions for easy grab-and-go snacks, making it simple for busy parents or students.

For more on banana benefits, visit this resource on how bananas boost health.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Donuts

How do you make banana donuts at home?

Banana donuts are soft, baked treats made with ripe mashed bananas for natural sweetness and moisture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan. In a bowl, mix 2 cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp cinnamon, and ¼ tsp salt. In another bowl, whisk 2 mashed ripe bananas, ½ cup sugar, 1 egg, ⅓ cup melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed—avoid overmixing for tender donuts. Pipe batter into the pan, filling ¾ full. Bake 10-12 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes in pan, then transfer to a rack. Yield: 12 donuts. Dip cooled donuts in brown butter glaze for extra flavor. Total time: 30 minutes. Perfect for breakfast or snacks.

What is brown butter and how does it improve banana donuts?

Brown butter is unsalted butter heated until the water evaporates and milk solids turn golden-brown, creating a rich, nutty flavor far beyond regular melted butter. It elevates banana donuts by adding depth that complements the fruit’s sweetness—think toasty, caramel-like notes in the glaze. To make it: Melt ½ cup unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. It foams, then crackles as bits form at the bottom. Swirl until brown bits appear and it smells nutty (3-5 minutes). Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning; strain if desired. Cool slightly, then mix with powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk for a glaze. Drizzle over banana donuts for a professional bakery taste. Stores in fridge up to 2 weeks. This simple step transforms basic donuts into irresistible ones.

How do you make brown butter for banana donut glaze?

Making brown butter for banana donut glaze takes just 5-7 minutes and adds unbeatable nutty richness. Start with ½ cup unsalted butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat—watch closely. Butter melts, foams, and bubbles (1-2 minutes). As foam subsides, stir occasionally; milk solids sink and turn golden-brown with a nutty aroma (another 2-3 minutes). Bits at bottom should be amber, not black—remove from heat right away. Pour into a heatproof bowl through a fine mesh if you want it smooth, or leave solids for texture. Cool 10 minutes. For glaze: Whisk 2 cups powdered sugar, 2-3 tbsp milk, 1 tsp vanilla, and all the brown butter until smooth and pourable. Dip or drizzle over cooled banana donuts. Pro tip: Make extra for cookies or veggies.

Can you make banana donuts ahead of time?

Fresh banana donuts taste best the day they’re baked due to their soft, moist texture from bananas. However, prepare batter up to 24 hours ahead: mix dry ingredients separately, cover wet mixture (mashed bananas, egg, etc.) and refrigerate both. Stir together just before baking—no issues with rise. Freeze unbaked batter in a zip bag for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in fridge, then bake as usual. Baked donuts freeze well whole: cool completely, wrap individually in plastic, and store in a freezer bag up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or warm in a 300°F oven 5 minutes. Glaze after thawing to avoid sogginess. This makes them ideal for meal prep or surprise guests. Avoid room-temp storage beyond 1 day to prevent drying.

How do you store banana donuts to keep them fresh?

Store unglazed banana donuts in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days—they stay moist thanks to bananas. For longer, refrigerate up to 4 days in a single layer to avoid sticking; bring to room temp before glazing. Freeze baked donuts (unglazed preferred) by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or in freezer bags, for 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge or on counter; reheat in 350°F oven 3-5 minutes for crisp edges. Glazed donuts refrigerate best in a covered container up to 3 days, but condensation can make them sticky—use parchment between layers. Avoid microwaving to prevent gumminess. Label with dates for freshness. These tips ensure your homemade banana donuts taste bakery-fresh anytime.